With these roots

By Emma Paris, 14, Putney, VT

One tree
was the tree I leaned upon 
while I had my first kiss 

One tree
knows that secret 
I trust trees more than people 

With these hands 
I build the soil around you like blankets 

With these roots
I entrust each pillowed seed in your spine 

With these hands
I force upon you union and temperance 

With these roots 
I curtsy on every stepping stone 

With these hands
I hold the sunshine to my tongue 

With these roots 
I gather the rain to my skirt 

With these hands 
I wish you prosperous tides 

With these roots
I curl your love into paperchain glories

With these hands 
I push you not light but warmth 

With these roots
I ask you to be mine [Art opposite page: By Vivien Sorce, 14, Hinesburg, VT – Golden Memories]